35 Variations of Joseph
- Joseph
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"Jehovah increases"Description:
Joseph is one of the most classic names in American nomenclature, popular with parents from many ethnic backgrounds and having dual-religious appeal.
- Giuseppe
Origin:
Italian variation of Joseph, HebrewMeaning:
"Jehovah increases"Description:
This form of Joseph is an enduring classic in Italy where it remains in the Top 20. In the States it's been hovering under the radar for decades, but its spirited, distinctive-yet-familiar sounds might help it catch on, as Giovanni has
- Seosamh
Description:
Seosamh is the traditional Irish Gaelic form of Joseph, a name with Hebrew origins meaning 'God will add' or 'God will increase.' Pronounced approximately as 'SHAW-suv' or 'SHO-sav,' this name reflects Ireland's linguistic heritage and cultural identity. While common knowledge of Irish names has grown internationally, Seosamh remains primarily used within Ireland or among diaspora communities with strong Irish cultural connections. It represents a way to honor both biblical tradition and Irish heritage simultaneously. The name gained renewed interest during periods of Irish cultural revival but remains less common than its anglicized version, Joseph. Seosamh offers parents a way to connect with authentic Irish language and tradition while using a name with deep historical roots.
- Pino
Origin:
Italian, diminutive of names such as GiuseppinoDescription:
There are many more substantial Italian choices.
- Jo
Origin:
Short form of Joseph, HebrewMeaning:
"Jehovah increases"Description:
Jo is usually the feminine form of the name, while Joe is the masculine spelling.
- Pipo
Description:
Pipo is a charming masculine name with multiple cultural connections. In Spanish-speaking countries, it often serves as a nickname for Felipe (Philip), while in Italian it may be a diminutive for Giuseppe (Joseph). The name has a playful, approachable quality with its repeating 'p' sound and simple two-syllable structure. In Finland, Pipo exists as an everyday word meaning 'beanie' or 'woolly hat.' Though uncommon as a formal given name in most Western countries, Pipo's international versatility and friendly sound make it appealing as both a nickname and given name. Its brevity and easy pronunciation work well across language barriers, giving it global appeal for parents seeking something distinctive yet accessible.
- Pepito
Description:
Pepito is a Spanish diminutive of José (Joseph), adding an affectionate quality to the original name. The -ito suffix indicates smallness or endearment in Spanish culture. It's commonly used as a nickname for boys named José, but has also become a standalone name in Hispanic communities. Pepito carries a warm, friendly connotation and evokes a sense of youthfulness. While more common as a nickname than an official given name, it maintains popularity in Spanish-speaking regions and communities. The name has occasionally appeared in literature and popular culture, reinforcing its cultural significance. Pepito's friendly sound and clear cultural roots give it a distinctive charm that continues to appeal to parents seeking a name with Latin heritage.
- Josef
Origin:
German, Scandinavian, Czech variation of Joseph, HebrewMeaning:
"Jehovah increases"Description:
The German, Scandinavian and Czech variant of Joseph, borne by several notable European artists and athletes, as well as the brutal Soviet dictator Josef (or Iosif) Stalin.
- Josef
Origin:
German, Scandinavian, Czech variation of Joseph, HebrewMeaning:
"Jehovah increases"Description:
The German, Scandinavian and Czech variant of Joseph, borne by several notable European artists and athletes, as well as the brutal Soviet dictator Josef (or Iosif) Stalin.
- Josef
Origin:
German, Scandinavian, Czech variation of Joseph, HebrewMeaning:
"Jehovah increases"Description:
The German, Scandinavian and Czech variant of Joseph, borne by several notable European artists and athletes, as well as the brutal Soviet dictator Josef (or Iosif) Stalin.
- Josef
Origin:
German, Scandinavian, Czech variation of Joseph, HebrewMeaning:
"Jehovah increases"Description:
The German, Scandinavian and Czech variant of Joseph, borne by several notable European artists and athletes, as well as the brutal Soviet dictator Josef (or Iosif) Stalin.
- Josef
Origin:
German, Scandinavian, Czech variation of Joseph, HebrewMeaning:
"Jehovah increases"Description:
The German, Scandinavian and Czech variant of Joseph, borne by several notable European artists and athletes, as well as the brutal Soviet dictator Josef (or Iosif) Stalin.
- Josef
Origin:
German, Scandinavian, Czech variation of Joseph, HebrewMeaning:
"Jehovah increases"Description:
The German, Scandinavian and Czech variant of Joseph, borne by several notable European artists and athletes, as well as the brutal Soviet dictator Josef (or Iosif) Stalin.
- Yosef
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"Jehovah increases"Description:
A widely used Hebrew form of Joseph, with a sophisticated and continental air.
- Kep
Description:
Kep is a short, distinctive masculine name with multiple possible origins. It may derive from Cambodian geography, referring to Kep Province, giving it cultural significance in Southeast Asian contexts. Alternatively, it could be a shortened form of names like Kepler or keeper, or even a surname adapted for first-name use. The brevity of Kep gives it a modern, minimalist appeal that works well in contemporary naming trends favoring short, impactful names. The name's rarity makes it statistically uncommon in most regions, appealing to parents seeking distinctive options. With its crisp sound and easy pronunciation across multiple languages, Kep offers simplicity while remaining memorable.
- Yousef
Origin:
Persian variation of Yusuf, ArabicMeaning:
"God increases"Description:
While Yusuf is the more popular Arabic form of Joseph, Yousef is the Persian variant and is sometimes used as an Arabic transcription. Currently in the Top 500 in the UK and the Top 1000 in the US, it is still a familiar choice.
- Beppe
Description:
Beppe is a masculine Italian name that functions as a familiar diminutive of Giuseppe, the Italian form of Joseph. This affectionate nickname originated in Italy, particularly common in northern regions. The name Joseph derives from Hebrew, meaning 'God will add' or 'God will increase.' Beppe maintains a warm, approachable quality while honoring Italian heritage and tradition. Outside of Italy, the name remains relatively uncommon, though Italian diaspora communities may use it. In modern Italy, Beppe continues to be used as both a nickname and occasionally as a given name in its own right. The name carries cultural significance, with notable bearers including Italian writers, politicians, and athletes. Its short, distinctive sound makes it memorable across cultural boundaries.
- Józef
Description:
Józef is the Polish form of Joseph, a name with ancient Hebrew origins meaning 'God will add' or 'God will increase.' This masculine name has been popular throughout Poland's history, carried by numerous notable Polish figures including Józef Piłsudski, a revolutionary leader and the first head of the independent Polish state. The name is written with the Polish letter 'ó' and pronounced roughly as 'YOO-zef.' While maintaining strong connections to Polish culture and Catholic tradition, Józef has seen varying levels of popularity over generations, sometimes giving way to more international variants. Despite this, it remains a classic Polish name that evokes strength and tradition. Outside of Poland and Polish diaspora communities, the name is relatively uncommon, making it a distinctive choice that proudly displays Polish heritage.
- Yusef
Description:
Yusef is a masculine name representing a transliteration variant of Yusuf, the Arabic form of Joseph. The name has deep historical roots in Islamic tradition, where Yusuf (Joseph) is revered as a prophet mentioned prominently in the Quran. The name derives from Hebrew origins meaning 'God will add' or 'God increases.' Yusef remains popular throughout the Middle East, North Africa, and Muslim communities worldwide. This spelling variation has gained some recognition in Western countries, appealing to parents seeking names with Arabic heritage but accessible pronunciation. Yusef carries connotations of wisdom, patience, and beauty in Islamic tradition, as Prophet Yusuf is described as exceptionally handsome and wise. The name's international recognition makes it cross-culturally viable while maintaining its distinctive cultural roots.
- Yazid
Description:
Yazid is a masculine name with Arabic origins, meaning "increase" or "he who adds." It has historical significance in Islamic culture, as it was the name of several caliphs and notable figures throughout Middle Eastern history. The name carries connotations of growth, abundance, and prosperity. While traditionally popular in Arabic-speaking countries and Muslim communities worldwide, Yazid has gained limited recognition in Western countries as cultural boundaries become more fluid. The name is appreciated for its distinctive sound, meaningful etymology, and cultural significance. Yazid has a strong, concise phonetic quality with its two clear syllables and distinctive 'z' sound, making it both memorable and relatively easy to pronounce across different languages.
Introducing the Nameberry App

- Swipe through thousands of names with your partner
- Names you match on are saved to your shared list
- Get personalized recommendations that learn based on your and your partner's preferences
- Partner with friends and family to find names you all love
- Backed by Nameberry's 20 years of data around name preferences.

